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Zootopia 2 Dominates Thanksgiving Weekend with $556M Worldwide

Source: ‘Zootopia 2’ Makessssss a Lot of Thanksgiving Weekend Money (2025-12-01)

Disney's 'Zootopia 2' Shatters Records and Captivates Audiences 'Zootopia 2' has made a spectacular splash at the box office, earning $556 million globally during its first five days in theaters, thanks to strategic holiday release timing and extensive promotional campaigns. This animated sequel not only topped the charts but also set new records, including the biggest-ever worldwide opening for an animated film and ranking as the fourth-best opening for any Hollywood movie. Notably, $400 million of its gross came from international markets, with China contributing a staggering $272 million, making it the largest animated opening in Chinese history and the second-largest launch since 'Avengers: Endgame' in 2019. The film features returning characters Judy and Nick, alongside new addition Ke Huy Quan’s Gary, the first reptile character in the franchise, which has resonated well with audiences and critics alike. In addition to its financial success, 'Zootopia 2' has garnered critical acclaim, with many reviewers comparing it favorably to the original 2016 film, which grossed over $1 billion and won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. The sequel's strong start indicates it is more than halfway to matching or surpassing the original's box office performance, and it is poised to be a major contender during awards season. Meanwhile, other holiday releases like 'Wicked: For Good' have also performed well, crossing $393 million globally in its second weekend, with domestic earnings surpassing $200 million. Recent industry insights reveal that animated films continue to dominate global markets, especially in China, where the appetite for high-quality family entertainment remains robust. The success of 'Zootopia 2' underscores Disney's strategic focus on international markets, particularly China, which now accounts for nearly 50% of the film’s total gross. Furthermore, the film's impressive opening has prompted studios worldwide to accelerate their release schedules for upcoming animated features, anticipating similar blockbuster performances. In terms of technological advancements, 'Zootopia 2' utilized cutting-edge animation techniques, including AI-driven rendering and enhanced motion capture, to deliver more immersive and visually stunning experiences. This aligns with industry trends where studios invest heavily in technology to differentiate their products in a competitive market. Additionally, Disney has announced plans to expand its global theatrical footprint, with new partnerships in Southeast Asia and Latin America, aiming to capitalize on the momentum generated by hits like 'Zootopia 2.' Looking ahead, analysts predict that 'Zootopia 2' will continue to perform strongly through the holiday season, with potential to reach or exceed the original film’s total gross. The film's success also highlights the importance of strategic release timing, international market focus, and technological innovation in achieving box office dominance. As Disney and other studios refine their approaches, the landscape of animated filmmaking is set to become even more dynamic, with audiences worldwide eager for high-quality, engaging stories. In conclusion, 'Zootopia 2' not only marks a significant milestone for Disney but also exemplifies the evolving global film industry, where blockbuster animated films are increasingly driven by international markets, technological advancements, and strategic marketing. Its record-breaking debut signals a promising future for animated sequels and underscores the importance of understanding global audience preferences in shaping the next era of cinematic entertainment.

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